Actor-politician Fred Thompson remembered at public memorial for wit, sincerity, booming voice

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Former senator and actor Fred Thompson was remembered for his booming voice, sense of humour and sincerity at a public memorial Friday.

U.S. Sen. John McCain recalled how Thompson’s funny, slightly subversive asides on the Senate floor made sometimes tedious proceedings more bearable. McCain said Thompson was a natural campaigner who didn’t run for office just to play a senator but believed he had a responsibility to solve America’s problems.

In addition to his political career, Thompson appeared in feature films and television, including the NBC drama “Law & Order.” Speaking of Thompson’s first acting role in the movie “Marie,” McCain said, “Fred is listed as playing himself. That’s who he always played, in movies and in public life.”

Thompson died Sunday in Nashville after a recurrence of lymphoma. He was 73.